Emirates has invested AED 50mn in transitioning to a closed-loop manufacturing model

In celebration of World Environment Day on 5 June, Emirates has highlighted the significant impact of its closed-loop recycling program, first launched in June 2023.
Over the past year, the airline has repurposed more than 88,000 kilograms of plastic from Economy Class inflight meal service items, transforming them into new products for use onboard.
As part of its commitment to environmental stewardship, Emirates has invested more than AED 50 million in transitioning to a closed-loop manufacturing model for inflight dining serviceware.
Specialist facility
Damaged and unserviceable Economy Class trays, casseroles, snack dishes and bowls are collected after flights, cleaned, inspected and processed at a specialist facility in Dubai.
With millions of trays, bowls and dishes used every year across Emirates’ global network, the programme supports circular economy principles, significantly reducing plastic waste sent to landfill while lowering transport emissions through local recycling and manufacturing.
The programme is delivered in partnership with deSter FZE UAE, a leading aviation serviceware provider and expert in closed-loop manufacturing.
